Breast cancer
At TMC Health Cancer Center, you’re never alone in your journey. As part of the largest healthcare system in Southern Arizona, we offer the best of both worlds — the warmth and personal connection of a community-focused team, access to the region’s most advanced diagnostics, treatments and support.
Expert breast cancer treatment and support
At TMC Health Cancer Center, breast cancer care means treating the whole person with compassion, expertise and support. As part of TMC Health, we combine the personal touch of a community practice with advanced resources, technology and specialists across the region. Our team of surgeons, oncologists, radiologists and support staff work together to create personalized treatment plans. With tools like 3D mammography, we detect breast cancer earlier and more accurately. Our High-Risk Breast Clinic offers specialized care for those at increased risk. We also provide nutrition counseling, physical therapy and emotional support -- because healing happens best when you’re cared for in every way.
Newly diagnosed patients
We're here to help.
Facing cancer diagnosis is daunting, but you're not alone. TMC Health Cancer Center offers warm, expert guidance with the full support of Southern Arizona's largest healthcare system.
It's often best to meet a medical oncologist after diagnosis to create a treatment plan that works best for you. We also welcome second opinions, ensuring you feel informed and empowered every step of the way.
Overview, treatment & recovery
Typically, patients move from a primary care physician to oncologists, who specialize in the study of cancer, for treatment. After a breast cancer diagnosis, a medical oncologist or breast cancer surgeon usually leads the patient's care.
Your medical oncologist will meet with you and your family to understand your specific situation. They will then consult with a team of physicians who treat breast cancer to create a personalized treatment plan. As needed, your oncologist will connect you with additional specialists. These may include:
- Breast cancer surgeons
- Radiation oncologists
- Support services
- Plastic surgeons
- Palliative care nurses
While it's common to think surgery is the first step, it's best to see a breast cancer oncologist first. In some cases, other treatments may be more suitable for your specific diagnosis.
Keeping track of important details during your breast cancer journey can be challenging, especially during those initial doctor's appointments. We suggest creating a system to record key information from the start. A dedicated notebook is a great option where you can jot down how you're feeling, any medicines or supplements you're taking, and questions or thoughts before your appointments. It's also an excellent place to record notes and answers during your visit; just remember to date everything you write.
If a physical notebook isn't for you, find a method that works and commit to using it regularly. Putting information on paper often eases your mind, allowing you to focus on other things. Remember, communication is vital for both you and your doctors.
Why a Notebook and Companions are Key
- Memory aid: It's tough to recall every detail, especially during stressful appointments. A notebook serves as a reliable record, while an extra set of ears can help remember what was said.
- Organized thoughts: Writing down questions and concerns before your appointment ensures you address everything important to you.
- Detailed record: You'll have a dated log of your feelings, medications and supplements, and the doctor's responses, which can be helpful for future reference.
- Reduced stress: Knowing you have a system in place can ease your mind, letting you focus more clearly during the appointment.
- Emotional support: A friend or family member provides comfort and reassurance during what can be an overwhelming time.
- Shared understanding: Your companion can help take notes, remind you of questions to ask, and ensure nothing important is missed.
Questions to ask your doctor:
- Who will be involved in my cancer care team?
- What are my breast cancer treatment options, what are their goals, and what side effects should I expect?
- What timeframe do I have to make treatment decisions?
- Is there any suspected lymph node involvement?
- Are clinical trials an option for me?
- Is supportive care accessible?
- What genetic information should my family members consider regarding my diagnosis?
- How might my lifestyle — my diet, exercise, rest, and stress — impact my treatment or recovery?
- Are there any specific diet and nutrition recommendations, and are there natural supplements I should or shouldn't take?
- Are there any activities I should avoid or add to my routine?
- What should I expect during my upcoming appointments?
- How will this diagnosis impact my daily life?
- What resources are available to help me manage treatment side effects?
- Can you recommend any support groups or counseling services?
Breast cancer occurs when cells in the breast grow out of control. It can start in different parts of the breast and may spread to other areas of the body. Early detection through regular screenings is crucial for successful treatment. At TMC Health Cancer Center, we're committed to providing comprehensive care for breast cancer patients at every stage.
Common signs and symptoms of breast cancer include:
- A lump or thickening in the breast or underarm
- Changes in breast size or shape
- Skin changes, such as dimpling or redness
- Nipple changes or discharge
Risk factors for breast cancer include:
- Being female
- Increasing age
- Personal or family history of breast cancer
- Inherited genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2)
- Early menstruation or late menopause
- Dense breast tissue
- Obesity and lack of physical activity
- Alcohol consumption
Regular screenings are essential for early detection. We recommend:
- Monthly breast self-exams
- Annual clinical breast exams
- Mammograms as recommended by your health care provider
If you notice any changes in your breasts or have concerns, don't hesitate to contact your health care provider. Early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Breast cancer is not a single disease. There are several kinds, and each has unique characteristics. This guide will help you understand how different breast cancer types are identified and categorized.
After a breast cancer diagnosis, your medical team will thoroughly evaluate a tissue sample from your breast biopsy or the tumor itself after surgery. This detailed analysis helps determine the specific type of breast cancer you have.
How Your Breast Cancer Type Is Determined
Several factors are considered when identifying your breast cancer type:
- Origin of Cancer Cells: Where the cancer cells first appeared.
- Cell Appearance: How the cancer cells look when viewed under a microscope.
- Hormone Response: How the cancer cells react to hormones.
- Genetic Makeup: The unique genetic characteristics of the cancer cells.
Categories of Breast Cancer
Breast cancers fall into two broad groups:
- Invasive: This means the cancer has spread beyond its original location into surrounding breast tissues.
- Noninvasive (in situ): The cancer cells are still contained within their starting point, such as the milk ducts or lobules in the breast.
Most breast cancers begin in the ducts or lobules and are called ductal carcinoma or lobular carcinoma.
Sometimes, a single breast tumor can contain a combination of different cancer types. In very rare cases, the cancer may not form a lump or tumor at all.
Common Types of Breast Cancer
Some breast cancer types are more common than others. Here are a few specific types:
- Ductal Carcinoma In Situ (DCIS):
- Lobular Carcinoma In Situ (LCIS):
- Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC):
- Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC):
Invasive breast cancers will most likely require a team of cancer specialists to create a treatment plan using one or more of these approaches:
- Chemotherapy
- Hormone therapy
- Biologic therapy
- Radiation therapy
- Surgery
Less Common Types of Breast Cancer
- Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC):
- Paget Disease of the Nipple:
A few other rare types of breast cancer are diagnosed each year, including:
- Phyllodes Tumor: These are rare breast tumors that develop in the breast's connective tissue (stroma) and grow in a leaf-like pattern. Although they tend to grow quickly, they rarely spread outside the breast.
- Angiosarcoma: This is a cancer in the inner lining of blood vessels that can occur anywhere in the body. It rarely affects the breast.
Triple Negative Breast Cancer and Hormone Receptor Status
Understanding the specific characteristics of your breast cancer cells, such as their hormone receptor status, is crucial for determining the most effective treatment.
Getting a breast cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, and you're likely to have many questions. When it comes to your treatment, one of the most important decisions you'll make is choosing your breast surgical oncologist. This is a surgeon who specializes in breast cancer and other breast diseases.
What a Breast Surgical Oncologist Does
These surgeons have expertise in a variety of procedures, including:
- Lumpectomy: Also known as breast-conserving surgery, this removes the tumor and a small amount of surrounding healthy tissue.
- Mastectomy: This involves removing the entire breast. It can include skin-sparing or nipple-sparing techniques.
- Breast reconstruction: This can happen at the same time as your mastectomy or in a separate surgery later.
- Preventive mastectomy: This surgery can be done to reduce the risk of breast cancer in people who are at high risk.
- Lymph node surgeries: These include procedures like axillary node dissection and sentinel node biopsy, which involve checking the lymph nodes for cancer cells.
Why Choosing a Specialist Matters
Your surgeon plays a vital role in your breast cancer treatment. Often, surgery is the first step, and the outcome of your surgery can impact the rest of your cancer treatment. That's why it's so important to choose a highly qualified and experienced surgeon who focuses specifically on breast cancer.
Better Results with a Specialist
While many surgeons may perform breast cancer operations occasionally, a breast surgical oncologist performs hundreds of these surgeries every year. Research shows that patients who have surgery performed by surgeons who do a high volume of breast cancer cases tend to have better outcomes.
These specialized surgeons have dedicated their careers to understanding breast cancer. They have extensive training and education in cancer biology, genetics and the most advanced surgical techniques to help you achieve the best possible results.
After breast cancer treatment, how you feel about your body matters. For many women, breast reconstruction after a mastectomy (or sometimes a lumpectomy) can be an important part of feeling whole again.
Deciding on breast reconstruction is deeply personal. It's not the right path for everyone, but it’s a choice worth understanding.
If you’re considering it, know that there isn't a single "best" option. What works for one person might not be ideal for another. Your breast cancer doctor, who often collaborates with your cancer surgeon and a plastic surgeon, can help you navigate these choices based on your unique situation.
When Can Reconstruction Happen?
The timing of your breast reconstruction can vary, depending on what makes the most sense for you.
- Immediate Reconstruction: Many women have their breast reconstruction done at the same time as, or shortly after, their mastectomy. This is a common approach when possible.
- Delayed Reconstruction: Sometimes, it's best to wait. If you need additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy, your doctor might recommend postponing reconstruction until those treatments are complete. This delay could be months or even years after your mastectomy.
Understanding Reconstruction Procedures
Several techniques are available for breast reconstruction, and some may involve more than one surgery. It's crucial to discuss these with your breast cancer doctor and the plastic surgeon who would perform the procedure to determine the best fit for you.
Generally, breast reconstruction falls into two main categories:
- Implant-Based Reconstruction: This method uses breast implants (made of silicone or saline) to create the shape of a new breast.
- Tissue-Based (Flap) Reconstruction: This approach uses your own tissue, often from your belly, thigh, or back, to form a new breast.
If you're having both breasts removed (a bilateral mastectomy), implants can often be simpler for matching size and shape. If only one breast needs reconstruction, a flap surgery might offer a better match to your remaining breast. In some cases, your surgeon might suggest reshaping your untouched breast so both look more similar.
You also have the option to reconstruct your nipple. This can involve techniques like tattooing or fat grafting. While a reconstructed nipple won't have sensation, it can help the new breast appear more natural.
Making Your Decision
Ultimately, what's right for you is a personal choice. Take the time to talk openly with your breast cancer doctor about your preferences and any concerns you have. With careful consideration, you can decide on the most suitable path for your body and your life.
Now, as part of TMC Health, TMC Health Cancer Center, we offer screening mammograms. We emphasize the importance of regular breast cancer screening through mammography. Early detection is crucial for successful treatment outcomes, and mammography remains the gold standard for breast cancer screening.
What is a mammogram? A mammogram is a low-dose X-ray image of the breast used to detect breast cancer early, often before any symptoms appear. It can reveal breast changes up to two years before a patient or physician can feel them.
When to start screening:
- Women aged 40 and older should have annual mammograms.
- Women with high risk factors may need to start screening earlier or have more frequent exams.
What to expect during a mammogram:
- The procedure typically takes 20-30 minutes.
- Each of your breasts will be compressed between two plates to spread the tissue and obtain clear images.
- You may experience some discomfort, but it's usually brief.
Preparing for your mammogram:
- Schedule your mammogram for the week after your menstrual period when your breasts are less tender.
- Don't wear deodorant, perfume or powder on the day of your exam, as these can interfere with the images.
- Wear a two-piece outfit for easy undressing above the waist.
After your mammogram:
- A radiologist will review your images and send a report to your health care provider.
- If any abnormalities are detected, you may be called back for additional imaging or a biopsy.
Remember, regular mammograms are an essential part of your health routine. They can detect cancer early when it's most treatable. For more information visit our mammography page.
At Tucson Medical Center, we understand that breast cancer treatment involves more than just medical care. We offer a wide range of support services to help you and your loved ones throughout your cancer journey:
- Nutrition services: Our registered dietitians provide personalized nutrition counseling to help manage treatment side effects and promote overall health.
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation: We offer specialized physical therapy services, including lymphedema management, to help you regain strength and mobility after treatment.
- Pain management: Our pain specialists work with you to develop effective pain management strategies during and after treatment.
- Psychosocial support: We provide access to social workers, psychologists, and support groups to help you cope with the emotional and psychological aspects of cancer treatment.
- Look Good, Feel Better program: We offer workshops to help patients manage appearance-related side effects of cancer treatment.
Our goal is to provide comprehensive, compassionate care that addresses all aspects of your well-being during and after breast cancer treatment. We're here to support you every step of the way.
Our High-Risk Breast Clinic provides specialized care for individuals at increased risk of developing breast cancer. We offer comprehensive services to help identify, manage and reduce your breast cancer risk.
Our services include:
- Risk assessment: We evaluate your personal and family history, lifestyle factors and genetic information to determine your breast cancer risk level.
- Personalized-screening plans: Based on your risk assessment, we develop tailored screening plans that may include more frequent mammograms, breast MRI or ultrasound.
- Risk-reduction strategies: We provide guidance on lifestyle modifications, preventive medications and surgical options to reduce your breast cancer risk.
- Education and support: Our team offers resources and support to help you understand your risk and make informed decisions about your breast health.
- Multidisciplinary approach: Our clinic collaborates with specialists in breast surgery, medical oncology and plastic surgery to provide comprehensive care.
- Long-term follow-up: We offer ongoing monitoring and support to ensure your breast health needs are met over time.
- If you have a family history of breast cancer, known genetic mutations or other high-risk factors, the TMC High Risk Breast Clinic can provide the specialized care and support you need. Early intervention and proactive management can significantly impact your breast health and overall well-being.
We offer a comprehensive range of treatment options for breast cancer. Our multidisciplinary team works together to create a personalized treatment plan tailored to each patient's specific needs. Treatment options may include:
- Surgery: We offer various surgical procedures, including: lumpectomy (the removal of the tumor and surrounding tissue), mastectomy (removal of the entire breast), sentinel lymph node biopsy (removal of a few lymph nodes to check for cancer spread), axillary lymph node dissection (removal of multiple lymph nodes).
- Radiation therapy: We use advanced radiation techniques to target cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Options include external beam radiation and brachytherapy (internal radiation).
- Chemotherapy: Our medical oncologists administer powerful drugs to destroy cancer cells throughout the body. This may be given before surgery (neoadjuvant) or after surgery (adjuvant).
- Hormone therapy: For hormone receptor-positive breast cancers, we offer treatments that block or lower hormone levels to slow or stop cancer growth.
- Targeted therapy: We use drugs that target specific proteins or genes involved in cancer growth, such as HER2-positive breast cancers.
- Immunotherapy: This treatment boosts your immune system's ability to fight cancer cells.
Receiving a breast cancer diagnosis presents a critical decision-making point regarding your treatment plan and care team. At TMC Health Cancer Center, we believe you deserve to feel confident in your chosen approach and comfortable with the specialists guiding you and your family through this journey. Your physician should also be attuned to your emotional well-being during this sensitive time.
It's important to understand that seeking a second opinion for a cancer diagnosis is a common and expected practice; cancer specialists are typically not offended. Most insurance providers cover second opinion assessments, but it's always wise to confirm with your specific plan before scheduling an appointment. In the majority of cases, a second opinion provides added confidence as you begin a treatment program, ensuring you feel at ease with your doctor, healthcare team and overall treatment path. Read more about second opinions.
